Gauss (1777-1855)

Abstract

Mathematics, like music or literature or art, is an activity for which we human beings possess immeasurable stores of talent and passion. It is a highly intellectual activity, but it should not be regarded as an elitist one. Even those of us who have never created a song, or a story, or a piece of mathematics, can still experience much pleasure from playing or listening to music, or from reading a book or attending a play, or from doing a calculation or studying a proof. Furthermore, after an initial period of practice, many of us become quite accomplished at an activity, and continue to derive pleasure from it throughout their lives. Some others among us have sufficient talent to become professional musicians, writers, or mathematicians. And, scattered throughout history, there are those rare individuals whose genius leaves us in awe. Thus, in music, Bach (1685–1750), Mozart (1756–1791), and Beethoven (1770–1827) seem to possess almost superhuman powers. In literature, we have Shakespeare (1564–1616), Milton (1608–1674), Goethe (1749–1832), and several others. In mathematics, Archimedes (287–212 B.C.), Newton (1642–1727), and Gauss are ranked at the top, but magnificent contributions were also made by a large number of others.